Hey future science storytellers! 🎤 Are you an aspiring science journalist with a passion for uncovering compelling stories? Do you dream of sharpening your writing skills, getting mentored by pros, and seeing your work published?
Then you absolutely need to hear about **The Open Notebook (TON) Early-Career Fellowship Bursary**! This isn’t just a regular program; it’s a fantastic, paid opportunity designed to kickstart your career in science journalism. If you’re ready to dive deep into the craft, this bursary could be your ticket to success in 2026!
Who Can Apply?
This awesome fellowship is looking for bright, early-career science journalists who meet these requirements:
- You’re an early-career science journalist, meaning you have fewer than three years of regular professional science writing experience. (Don’t worry, internships and student work don’t count towards this limit!)
- Good news for everyone: You’re welcome to apply no matter where you live in the world!
- You need some training and/or experience in writing about science for a general audience. It doesn’t have to be extensive, but show us what you’ve got!
- All application materials, including your writing samples and references, must be in English. (Translated materials are totally fine!)
They’re especially keen on applicants who show a strong commitment to becoming professional science journalists, understand the challenges of the profession, and are familiar with The Open Notebook‘s style. Plus, if you can generate great story ideas for them and have strong writing skills, you’re a top contender!
What Does It Cover?
This isn’t just a learning experience; it’s a paid opportunity! Here’s what you get:
- **A $4,000 Stipend:** Yes, you read that right! This is a paid, part-time fellowship that supports you financially.
- **Professional Mentorship:** You’ll work closely with a mentor to plan, report, and write articles for publication on The Open Notebook.
- **Become Part of the Team:** You’ll join The Open Notebook editorial team, gaining invaluable experience and connections.
- **Skill Sharpening:** This one-year program is your chance to explore your interests, refine your writing and reporting skills, and grow as part of a supportive community.
How to Apply?
Ready to make your move? Here’s a breakdown of the application process:
- **Prepare Your Responses:** You’ll need to answer questions about why you’re interested, your experience, what unique skills you bring, and your plans during the fellowship period (e.g., if you’ll be studying or freelancing alongside it).
- **Craft Two Story Proposals:** Submit two short, 100-word proposals for features or multimedia stories suitable for The Open Notebook. Get familiar with their content to nail this part!
- **Get Your Documents Ready:** You’ll need an up-to-date resume or CV.
- **Secure a Reference:** One letter of reference is required from someone who can speak to your skills in science journalism.
- **Showcase Your Work:** Provide up to two writing or multimedia samples that are aimed at the general public (not academic papers!). If you have audio/video, just include the URLs in a PDF.
- **Optional but Encouraged:** If you’re from a group historically marginalized or underrepresented in journalism, you’re invited to share this information – it’s confidential and entirely optional.
Don’t miss out on this incredible chance to launch your science journalism career! All the details and the application form can be found on the official webpage.
Ready to apply? Click here:
Visit the Official Webpage of The Open Notebook (TON) Early-Career Fellowship Program
If this sounds like the right bursary for you, don’t wait — apply now and explore even more bursaries for your future on Bursaries Room!
